Two Peterson students among first to complete dyslexia remediation program

Every day, students in Northwest ISD overcome challenges to improve their education and leap roadblocks in their way. For Peterson Elementary School students Ryan Leiker and Nathan Hummert, beating obstacles also meant becoming among the first students to complete the district’s dyslexia remediation program, which began in the 2019-2020 school year.

The program, multisensory teaching approach, or MTA, is a method of teaching reading that combines visual, auditory and kinesthetic (or muscle) instruction. Based on the alphabet symbol system, MTA teaches the science of the written language and addresses reading, handwriting and spelling.

“I am very proud of Ryan and Nathan for persevering and showing grit each and every day to accomplish the goal of finishing the MTA program their fifth-grade year,” said Kacie Mills, Intervention Specialist at Peterson. “They never gave up and had the best attitude all year!”

The curriculum requires students to attend a 45-minute class for four days each week for approximately three years. Ryan and Nathan came to class every day ready to learn and put forth their best efforts. When they finished lessons early, they would eagerly ask to keep going with the next lesson. 

During their learning, they also showed an interest in discovering more about dyslexia in general. They were surprised to learn about dyslexic celebrities and the strengths people with dyslexia have. 

“I know this accomplishment is just the beginning for Ryan and Nathan – they are destined for great things,” said Ms. Mills. “I am extremely proud of these boys!”